It’s only October, but two of Liverpool’s iconic buildings are already getting into the festive spirit.
St George’s Hall and Liverpool Town Hall have unveiled their exciting Christmas programmes which aim to entertain the whole family.
At St George’s Hall there will be:
The Christmas Market, 15 November – 23 December, free entry
Taking over the plateau, the popular market makes its return, with a focus this year on food and drink. Foodies will love the offer, including the Yorkshire Pudding Wrap stall which was a huge success last year. Those after a festive tipple can choose between the Tepee or Windmill Bar or the Gin Tin, and don’t forget the ski lodge and its karaoke cable cars. The market will be complete with beautiful festoon lighting and vintage fairground rides for the kids to enjoy.
Elf Adventure Challenge, 30 November – 24 December, prices from £5.50 to £13.50
Santa’s elves need some help this Christmas. Families are encouraged to join in the fun and complete toy-making and sleigh loading challenges, and enjoy some music and storytelling. This 50 minute interactive experience aimed at two to ten year olds and their grown-ups. Early booking is advised as this event is already proving popular.
Carols by Lantern Light, 6pm 8 December, tickets are £13.75
Set in the stunning surroundings of the Great Hall, Mezzo soprano Danielle Thomas will join organist Professor Ian Tracey and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Chamber Choir in a magical night. With performances of classics such as Of Holy Night and Silent Night taking place in the glow of 100 lanterns, this event has a festive spirit guarantee!
Luna Winter Cinema, 17 December – 23 December, prices range from £6.50 to £13
The ultimate festive cinema experience returns to the Hall after its hugely successful inaugural year in 2018.
It’s a Wonderful Life, The Greatest Showman, Home Alone and Love Actually are just some of the films which will be screened. Refreshments will be on offer at the bar, including mulled wine, hot chocolate and mince pies.
More details and pre-booking available for the above events at stgeorgeshallliverpool.co.uk/whats-on.
At the Town Hall:
Story Time with Santa, 7 – 24 December, £16.25 per child
Father Christmas will take some time out of his hectic schedule and will join Buddy the Elf in sharing magical stories and songs in front of a cosy log fire. Lasting 45 minutes, two adults can attend free of charge with each child. Booking is recommended as a limited number of children can take part in each session .
More details and pre-booking available for Story Time with Santa at www.liverpooltownhall.co.uk/events/story-time-with-santa.
The Halls cost the city council £2million a year to operate, so all money raised from the Christmas programme of events will be invested back into these iconic Grade I listed buildings, to preserve and protect them for future generations to enjoy.
Deputy Mayor and Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Events, Councillor Wendy Simon, said: “The Christmas events at both St George’s Hall and the Town Hall have built up a strong following over the last few years.
“Not only are visitors enjoying some fantastic festive entertainment, but they’re doing so in the surroundings of two of the city’s most iconic buildings.
“This varied programme is perfect for families who want to get into the Christmas spirit, and also brings in valuable income which is invested in the costs of running these listed buildings.”
Helen Nurse from Wonder Adventures, which is responsible for the Elf Adventure Challenge, said: “We are so excited to bring The Elf Adventure Challenge to St George’s Hall this year.
“Being able to use the unique and atmospheric space in St George’s will be an amazing setting in which to deliver the fun, festive Elf challenges to children and their grown-ups.
“Our team of Elves are passionate about providing an interactive experience that engages and challenges children. It is a perfect event for active, imaginative children who love Christmas, and the magical memories that time together as a family at this time of year creates.
“Children can expect to learn about all the important aspects of being a Christmas Elf, and we hope that the children take away the Elf ways with them – Live with Joy, Talk with Cheer, Act with Fun, Live your Idea.”
To find out more about what is happening across Liverpool this festive season visit www.visitliverpool.com/christmas or contact Lucy at [email protected].